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Hopeful
I've spent the last eight years working hard to put my career front and center in my life, dodging any personal complications. I have a strict no-dating policy. I've managed to piece together a reality that works for me.
Eight years ago, Joel Wentworth, the love of my life, left for New York. I'd refused to go with him and I haven't seen him again. Never even spoken to him.
Until now.
Now, Joel's coming back to London.
And I need to get over him before he gets over here.
Eight years ago, Joel Wentworth, the love of my life, left for New York. I'd refused to go with him and I haven't seen him again. Never even spoken to him.
Until now.
Now, Joel's coming back to London.
And I need to get over him before he gets over here.
384 pages, ebook
First published July 15, 2014
345 people are currently reading
2293 people want to read
About the author
Louise Bay
77 books7,498 followersInternational, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author, Louise Bay writes contemporary romance novels that make you laugh - the kind she likes to read.
Ruined by the bonk-busters of the eighties, Louise was inspired by Judith Krantz and Jackie Collins, but wants to be Emily Henry when she grows up.
Louise loves the rain, RHOBH, London, days when she doesn't have to wear make-up, hanging out with her kid, elephants and champagne (not necessarily in that order).
She loves to hear from readers so get in touch!
Ruined by the bonk-busters of the eighties, Louise was inspired by Judith Krantz and Jackie Collins, but wants to be Emily Henry when she grows up.
Louise loves the rain, RHOBH, London, days when she doesn't have to wear make-up, hanging out with her kid, elephants and champagne (not necessarily in that order).
She loves to hear from readers so get in touch!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 347 reviews
January 9, 2018
3.5 stars
Enjoyable read. :) This heroine, however, was testing my patience. As in, I kept waiting for explanation of why exactly she was the way she was. And I don't think that at the end I really understood her. Oh well :D
Flashbacks to college days were very enjoyable. For those who like love stories about couples getting reunited years later, this one might be for you!
October 23, 2017
I LOVE this story (I would say that wouldn't I?) but I truly do. I had a hangover from my own book!
March 7, 2017
Ava is a law student at the same university where Joel is studying to be an economist. Both work hard for what they want in life which makes every moment they have together in the library worth it (in both ways!). And, although Ava is afraid of what people might say when they know Joel is with a girl like her, they date until their time in the university ends and they encounter different paths ahead of them.
Now, eight years later, they meet again! And Ava doesn’t want him to think she’s still hung up on him and starts dating nonstop. But, we all know, there’s no love like the first one!
“We’ve been in love a long time, Ava. It’s time we acted like it.”
Oh my God. This was so emotional, I actually cried while reading this book. Ava is completely and utterly in love with Joel and seeing her admit it just broke my heart!
“I know I’ve been scared and selfish and weak, and it’s one of a hundred reasons why I don’t deserve you. But if there’s even a glimmer of hope that I might persuade you that you’re my thunderbolt, then I have to try. Because I need you. More than anything, I want you. I love you. For infinity.”
This book is really good! There’s a great cast of secondary characters that made me laugh so many times I lost count. Also Ava and Joel’s chemistry is out of this world and I guess it makes sense since they were the first ones to each other that really mattered. And the sex is hot, like, really hot!
“You are perfect. Perfectly beautiful, perfectly soft, perfectly wet, perfectly mine.”
The only thing that bothered me is the way the story is told because we see them getting back together without knowing the reason that broke them apart eight years later. Basically, if I knew why they fell apart sooner, I would have enjoyed more of the story because I would have known their reasons better. But altogether the story ties up just perfectly in the end!
I already read most of Louise’s books and this one was just as good as the others so well done Louise Bay!
Now, eight years later, they meet again! And Ava doesn’t want him to think she’s still hung up on him and starts dating nonstop. But, we all know, there’s no love like the first one!
“We’ve been in love a long time, Ava. It’s time we acted like it.”
Oh my God. This was so emotional, I actually cried while reading this book. Ava is completely and utterly in love with Joel and seeing her admit it just broke my heart!
“I know I’ve been scared and selfish and weak, and it’s one of a hundred reasons why I don’t deserve you. But if there’s even a glimmer of hope that I might persuade you that you’re my thunderbolt, then I have to try. Because I need you. More than anything, I want you. I love you. For infinity.”
This book is really good! There’s a great cast of secondary characters that made me laugh so many times I lost count. Also Ava and Joel’s chemistry is out of this world and I guess it makes sense since they were the first ones to each other that really mattered. And the sex is hot, like, really hot!
“You are perfect. Perfectly beautiful, perfectly soft, perfectly wet, perfectly mine.”
The only thing that bothered me is the way the story is told because we see them getting back together without knowing the reason that broke them apart eight years later. Basically, if I knew why they fell apart sooner, I would have enjoyed more of the story because I would have known their reasons better. But altogether the story ties up just perfectly in the end!
I already read most of Louise’s books and this one was just as good as the others so well done Louise Bay!
November 12, 2015
I feel scared to write this. This is my first review on Goodreads, and the only reason I even started typing this out is because of my utter shock at seeing the high ratings this book got here.
Joel was lovable. Macho. Alpha. Jealous. Direct. Always clear about his love for her.
and Ava was just the opposite. She claims to have loved him in the past and the present, with a gap of 8 years between these two times. But actions speak louder than words is the motto here.
She never revealed her relationship with Joel to her friends. And those are close friends. Friends closer than family. So I expect her to have a valid reason for ALL THIS DAMN secrecy, but nope, the lady is just insecure. About herself. About the relationship. About her friends' reactions. About what Taylor Swift will say in her next interview.
And what got me pissed was, Joel didn't deserve this epitome of insincerity from her side. Not once, not once throughout the course of the story did he give her a reason to doubt anything. PERFECT MAN RIGHT HERE.
She's a selfish person too. Her friends were always very open with her, especially Jules, about her own attraction to Joel. And here is Ava, ready to ditch and avoid Jules because of it. All those years of friendship, she's ready to flush down the drain, just because Jules has the balls to be upfront and our dear Ava does not.
And she loves him. And her friends, apparently.
I could go on at this forever. For two minutes after finishing the book, I was sitting in stunned silence whether I read the same book as everyone else.
I would've given this one star, but Joel was bae, so two.
Have a good day, y'all.
Joel was lovable. Macho. Alpha. Jealous. Direct. Always clear about his love for her.
and Ava was just the opposite. She claims to have loved him in the past and the present, with a gap of 8 years between these two times. But actions speak louder than words is the motto here.
She never revealed her relationship with Joel to her friends. And those are close friends. Friends closer than family. So I expect her to have a valid reason for ALL THIS DAMN secrecy, but nope, the lady is just insecure. About herself. About the relationship. About her friends' reactions. About what Taylor Swift will say in her next interview.
And what got me pissed was, Joel didn't deserve this epitome of insincerity from her side. Not once, not once throughout the course of the story did he give her a reason to doubt anything. PERFECT MAN RIGHT HERE.
She's a selfish person too. Her friends were always very open with her, especially Jules, about her own attraction to Joel. And here is Ava, ready to ditch and avoid Jules because of it. All those years of friendship, she's ready to flush down the drain, just because Jules has the balls to be upfront and our dear Ava does not.
And she loves him. And her friends, apparently.
I could go on at this forever. For two minutes after finishing the book, I was sitting in stunned silence whether I read the same book as everyone else.
I would've given this one star, but Joel was bae, so two.
Have a good day, y'all.
November 23, 2015
This book infuriated me on so many aspects.
Who the heck cares what your friends would think about your past or present love of your life? Who the heck cares sits backs and watches her "best friend" make the moves on the man she's loved and is finally seeing again after eight years????
GAH!! I wanted to shake Ava and kick Joel for taking her back after the torture she put him through.
NO BUENO!!!
Who the heck cares what your friends would think about your past or present love of your life? Who the heck cares sits backs and watches her "best friend" make the moves on the man she's loved and is finally seeing again after eight years????
GAH!! I wanted to shake Ava and kick Joel for taking her back after the torture she put him through.
NO BUENO!!!
August 14, 2014
Genre: contemp romance
Series: spin-off of Faithful but can be read stand alone
Cliffy? No.
I liked it okay, but the heroine was a real pill and pretty unlikable. You wonder what the dude really saw in her. She was a crappy friend, too. Hard to believe the h was a lawyer because there are 5 year olds with more maturity than her.
The story goes back and forth between the past and present and it was totally not needed. I usually like that writing structure but not when done by an amateur.
Altho not as bad as the author's previous novel in this dept, this book still needs to be proofread.
Sensuality: PG-13
Rating: 2.5
Series: spin-off of Faithful but can be read stand alone
Cliffy? No.
I liked it okay, but the heroine was a real pill and pretty unlikable. You wonder what the dude really saw in her. She was a crappy friend, too. Hard to believe the h was a lawyer because there are 5 year olds with more maturity than her.
The story goes back and forth between the past and present and it was totally not needed. I usually like that writing structure but not when done by an amateur.
Altho not as bad as the author's previous novel in this dept, this book still needs to be proofread.
Sensuality: PG-13
Rating: 2.5
June 25, 2018
🌟🌟4 Infinity Stars!🌟🌟
I so enjoyed this second chance love story! This is a modern day version of Persuasion that I’ve been meaning to read for a while and I’m glad I finally did. It was a bit frustrating at times, but the romance between Joel and Ava was beautiful. You could feel their love and chemistry coming off the pages. Definitely recommend it!
I so enjoyed this second chance love story! This is a modern day version of Persuasion that I’ve been meaning to read for a while and I’m glad I finally did. It was a bit frustrating at times, but the romance between Joel and Ava was beautiful. You could feel their love and chemistry coming off the pages. Definitely recommend it!
August 3, 2014
Oh My G! I think I got so lucky this week. Because all the books I’ve read so far managed to get3-5 star reviews from me. Surprisingly, most of the books I’ve reviewed got a 5! Hopeful isn’t an exception.
Hopeful contains contain chapters including the epilogue. It was told in the POV of Ava Elliot and it alternates between the Present and the Past. I loved how the story was told because it kept me at a pace which left me torn as to what I should do? I wanted to just skip the other chapters just to see if my suspicions are accurate and at the same time, I wanted to just keep up with the pace and just see where it takes me. I’m so glad I chose the latter. Because the wait was worth it. I enjoyed the not-knowing part because it kept me wanting for more.
Ava Elliot is a college student who is studying to be a lawyer. She was surrounded by her gang of friends - Adam, Jules, Daniel, Matt and Hanna. She was always the responsible one. And even though everyone sees what a catch she was, she doesn’t truly believe it. She feels like she lacks something. She felt pressured by the expectation of her parents for her. She knows that they worked hard so that she could attend university so she feels like she has to do her best and study hard so that she won’t disappoint them.
Joel Wentworth. He’s an Economics student. Everyone falls at his feet. Everywhere he goes, people stop by to talk to him. He came from an affluent family. It seems like he has everything. That he can attain anything easily without exerting any effort. Well, that’s how Ava sees it.
Ava and the Gang +Joel. They were a pretty close knit who have known each other since they started the Uni. So Joel, being a friend of Adam, was introduce to them. He kind of felt left off and he felt awkward mingling with them at first. So he just watched from the outside, and there’s this one girl who caught his attention. And Ava being Ava, didn’t have any clue.
The Library. I love how the author took full advantage of the library. I’ve been hoping that I’ll find my Mr. Right inside a library. Joel saw an opportunity to get close with her when they had a chance encounter in the library. Without her friends, she was able to see through Joel – that he also works hard like everybody else. It became their little secret. They began to see each other, but they downplay it when they were with their friends. Day by day, they started to fall just an inch deeper. They were living in their own bubble world without anyone staring at them like they were an odd pair, without anyone giving their judgment. They became a couple when they were in the library. And because Ava didn’t want to burst their happy bubble, they didn’t mention just how serious they were with the gang. But with the university graduation fast approaching, will they survive the pressure? Do their future plans include each other? What were they willing to risk to be with each other?
You go with me or else…. Their love was real. But I just think, they had different plans back then. They were both fresh out of college. So much in love with each other. A bright future ahead. The sad part is, they met at the wrong time. Ava was at this place where she cares about the people’s judgment. She cares about her parents’ approval. With their unending support just to send her to school, disappointment wasn’t a question. She wanted to make them proud. Her dreams are at stake. Joel, on the other hand, had it easier. He doesn’t have anyone to answer to except Ava. His parents support him. And when he received his acceptance for work, he asked Ava to postpone her schooling so she could go with her. That was the breaking point. As much as I want to upset by her decision to continue to law school, I understand her. I just hate how Joel let her choose between him and her family. That is just FOUL! And I hated him for that. That was selfish. If he truly loved her, he shouldn’t have pressured her to go with him. He’s busy chasing his dream and he wants his girl to shelve her dreams just so he can have her support? WTH?! Really? So what did he do? He pursued his dream, leaving Ava alone and heartbroken – wallowing in self-pity, because he can’t do the LDR thing? That’s some twisted logic.
8 years later. Ava is still in misery – not completely mended. She occupied herself with work. No social activity other than her outings with her friends. She was constantly paired up with every single men Jules know. She was the most likely to end up a spinster. Adam teased her of being a lesbian. What they didn’t know was she was still trying to pick up the pieces of her heart. Every time he comes to London, she stay out of town not wanting to be in direct contact with him. And now, he’s coming back and he’s staying for good. Will her heart endure it? Or is this the chance she needed to have some closure and move on?
“There will never be anyone else for me. I know that’s true. He’s it. The one. The love of my life. The thing some of you will never be lucky enough to find. He always has been and always will be my thunderbolt.”
“I know I’ve been scared and selfish and weak, and it’s one of a hundred reasons why I don’t deserve you. But if there’s even a glimmer of hope that I might persuade you that you’re my thunderbolt, then I have to try. Because I need you. More than anything, I want you. I love you. For infinity.”
Hopeful. And although Ava wanted closure, her heart begs for more. She was hopeful that what they had 8 years ago was real and that they can withstand emotional overload they feel when their together. I’m proud of Ava for enduring 8 years’ worth of pain, of punishment, and still being hopeful the infinity Joel promised her. I was just hoping for a more remorseful Joel, because honestly, he waited 8 years just to see her again? Man. That was just stupid. I love how Ava acknowledged all her faults, how she stood up to her friends, how she asserted her real feelings for Joel. I’m so proud of her because she was able to overcome all her insecurities in life, she was able to forgive and accept Joel, and she was finally letting all her realizations, of what’s really important in her life, sink in. I’m so loving the new and improved Ava. Joel is so lucky to have her.
Hopeful is a bittersweet story of a second-chance romance. A love that withstood the test of time. Truly, if your love is meant to be, it really is. Problems may emerge and come between the two of you, but in the end, it will always be that love that will save you from wrecking your relationship. Love that lasts to infinity is truly worth waiting for. I’m in like with this book! I’m looking forward to more books from you, Miss Louise Bay!
5 Stars
:) written by: Milka :)
July 16, 2014
4.5 stars! It gave me the good ache!
*ARC provided to G the Book Diva blog in exchange for an honest review*
Holy Hotness! Could Joel be any sexier! I mean really, Ava?! How could she even think about letting him get away!
Ava and Joel were basically acquaintances/ friends of friends until their last year of college. They start off as study buddies and eventually give into the electricity buzzing between them. The group of friends they hang with have issues with topic boundaries and Ava is terrified that everyone will give her a hard time for hooking up with a player like Joel. So, at her insistence they remain in their secret little intense "bubble" for as long as they can until Ava must make the decision to go public with their relationship and move to New York with Joel after graduation or disappoint her parents by postponing her career plans and endure judgment from her friends. Guess what she chooses...
Don't worry, I'm not giving anything away since the book flips from past to present so you know about her choice pretty early on.
8 years later Joel returns to London and she is nowhere near over him. She does her best to try to avoid him and continue on with her life but it proves impossible, especially when she suspects he still feels the same way about her.
This is a true love story and I couldn't put it down! I highly recommend!
*ARC provided to G the Book Diva blog in exchange for an honest review*
Holy Hotness! Could Joel be any sexier! I mean really, Ava?! How could she even think about letting him get away!
Ava and Joel were basically acquaintances/ friends of friends until their last year of college. They start off as study buddies and eventually give into the electricity buzzing between them. The group of friends they hang with have issues with topic boundaries and Ava is terrified that everyone will give her a hard time for hooking up with a player like Joel. So, at her insistence they remain in their secret little intense "bubble" for as long as they can until Ava must make the decision to go public with their relationship and move to New York with Joel after graduation or disappoint her parents by postponing her career plans and endure judgment from her friends. Guess what she chooses...
Don't worry, I'm not giving anything away since the book flips from past to present so you know about her choice pretty early on.
8 years later Joel returns to London and she is nowhere near over him. She does her best to try to avoid him and continue on with her life but it proves impossible, especially when she suspects he still feels the same way about her.
This is a true love story and I couldn't put it down! I highly recommend!
August 12, 2018
Hopeful by Louise bay is a slightly naughty quick easy read for filling an afternoon.
If you like a easy romance about first time loves reappearing then you will like this.
I don't make a habit for reading romance but I like to throw one in every now and again and I did enjoy this one.
If you like a easy romance about first time loves reappearing then you will like this.
I don't make a habit for reading romance but I like to throw one in every now and again and I did enjoy this one.
July 16, 2014
Slick‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4.5 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
After really enjoying author Louise Bay’s debut novel Faithful, I had high hopes for Hopeful and I was not disappointed. This book had just a little bit more than the first one; there was more of an emotional connection, the characters were developed more, there was more from amazing secondary characters, and their sexy times were more intimate. I love seeing growth in a writer and it was really evident between these two books.
This book flashed back and forth from 8 years ago when this group was at university and present and normally I’m not a fan of the flashback but in this book it worked because we needed to see where this couple had been so the present could unfold. Ava and Joel had a secret relationship in college than none of their friends knew about. Ava liked it that way she called it their “bubble.” It was just something between the two of them but circumstances after graduation kept them apart but now Joel has returned to London and they are forced to be around one another again.
Honestly I really felt sorry for Ava because it was obvious she had never gotten over Joel so much so that she never dated and never had sex with anyone since him. Knowing he’s coming back she sets out to find someone, anyone who will help her get over Joel but even that doesn’t work all that well. I was surprised by the depth of her feelings even after so many years and I still kind of wonder why she never tried to date but honestly I just think her heart still belonged to him and she just couldn’t move past it because they really hadn’t had any closure.
Joel was one of those dynamic personalities that you just couldn’t help but like. Even as a college student people were drawn to him so it wasn’t a big surprise he became so successful. It was easy to see that he was having a hard time being around Ava when he first returned; he was short and at times bordering on rude. I love that he finally pushed her to talk and to answer the questions that he had about the past and about what was happening now.
When these two were together as students it really was magical. They took their time getting to know one another and their relationship built slowly but once they admitted they wanted more the fireworks went off and they were hot. I love that they explored each other so much and that their feelings built over time and that they had no trouble expressing them to each other. They had problems most of which stemmed from Ava’s reluctance to let their friends in on their relationship, something that comes back to haunt her and to threaten them in the present. My one complaint is that they never really talked about the eight years they spent apart; a lot happened in those years and they both changed so it would have been nice to hear how they reacted to what each other had to share.
I really loved this story and this couple; they had a special bond one that spanned time and separation and while I’m sad they missed so much time with one another I think it really only reinforced their love they had for each other. Hopeful is a fantastic story about two people who had that “forever kind of love” but it just happened a bit sooner than they were ready for it; luckily they got a second chance!
4.5 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
After really enjoying author Louise Bay’s debut novel Faithful, I had high hopes for Hopeful and I was not disappointed. This book had just a little bit more than the first one; there was more of an emotional connection, the characters were developed more, there was more from amazing secondary characters, and their sexy times were more intimate. I love seeing growth in a writer and it was really evident between these two books.
This book flashed back and forth from 8 years ago when this group was at university and present and normally I’m not a fan of the flashback but in this book it worked because we needed to see where this couple had been so the present could unfold. Ava and Joel had a secret relationship in college than none of their friends knew about. Ava liked it that way she called it their “bubble.” It was just something between the two of them but circumstances after graduation kept them apart but now Joel has returned to London and they are forced to be around one another again.
Honestly I really felt sorry for Ava because it was obvious she had never gotten over Joel so much so that she never dated and never had sex with anyone since him. Knowing he’s coming back she sets out to find someone, anyone who will help her get over Joel but even that doesn’t work all that well. I was surprised by the depth of her feelings even after so many years and I still kind of wonder why she never tried to date but honestly I just think her heart still belonged to him and she just couldn’t move past it because they really hadn’t had any closure.
Joel was one of those dynamic personalities that you just couldn’t help but like. Even as a college student people were drawn to him so it wasn’t a big surprise he became so successful. It was easy to see that he was having a hard time being around Ava when he first returned; he was short and at times bordering on rude. I love that he finally pushed her to talk and to answer the questions that he had about the past and about what was happening now.
When these two were together as students it really was magical. They took their time getting to know one another and their relationship built slowly but once they admitted they wanted more the fireworks went off and they were hot. I love that they explored each other so much and that their feelings built over time and that they had no trouble expressing them to each other. They had problems most of which stemmed from Ava’s reluctance to let their friends in on their relationship, something that comes back to haunt her and to threaten them in the present. My one complaint is that they never really talked about the eight years they spent apart; a lot happened in those years and they both changed so it would have been nice to hear how they reacted to what each other had to share.
I really loved this story and this couple; they had a special bond one that spanned time and separation and while I’m sad they missed so much time with one another I think it really only reinforced their love they had for each other. Hopeful is a fantastic story about two people who had that “forever kind of love” but it just happened a bit sooner than they were ready for it; luckily they got a second chance!
August 1, 2014
FIVE FABULOUS STARS
Kindle Friends Forever
I was very pleased to be reading Hopeful for an honest review as I had already read the previous story Faithful.
The story centres around Joel Wentworth and Ava Elliot and flits from present day to past. Why you may ask? Well, Ava is a successful lawyer and has been a workaholic for the past eight years since leaving University. She hasn't been on the dating scene and her friends since University keep reminding her she needs to get back out there. They also drop the bombshell that Joel is coming back to London from New York where he has been living and working for the past eight years.
The group of friends are oblivious as to why Ava suddenly feels panicked at the very thought of Joel coming back. Ava enrols the help of Jules to help her with on-line dating as she doesn't want Joel to believe she is a lonely spinster. Jules is happy to help Ava achieve this. Joel arrives back into London, he is single, hot and an extremely successful businessman. It is arranged for all the friends to have a reunion dinner with Joel to welcome him back.
The story jumps to the past where Joel and Ava develop a close friendship going to the library regular to study but it becomes apparent they have strong feelings for one another. They embark on a secret relationship as Ava feels it may ruin the dynamics of the group of friends. The tension is palpable every time there is a gathering with Joel, Ava Jules, Adam, Matt and Hannah and of course Daniel and Leah who we learnt about from Faithful. As the story progresses, you are anxious to know why eight years ago Joel and Ava were in their own little love bubble and get to where they are now older and alone. It’s clear they were deeply in love eight years ago. So what happened or changed to make them where they are in present day? Do they still harbour feelings for each other after all this time? That is a question that can only be answered by reading this story.
This book contains hot sex, angst and you are so desperate to know what happens next. It is clear the author knows how to tell a good story that keeps you on the edge of your seat wanting to know more, and I'm hoping that we get to have more about Joel and Ava along with the other mentioned characters.This story reminded me of the hit American series Friends but with hot scenes and more angst. We all know how successful that show was.
Well done Louise for another fantastic book. I'm hopeful there is more to come.
Kindle Friends Forever
I was very pleased to be reading Hopeful for an honest review as I had already read the previous story Faithful.
The story centres around Joel Wentworth and Ava Elliot and flits from present day to past. Why you may ask? Well, Ava is a successful lawyer and has been a workaholic for the past eight years since leaving University. She hasn't been on the dating scene and her friends since University keep reminding her she needs to get back out there. They also drop the bombshell that Joel is coming back to London from New York where he has been living and working for the past eight years.
The group of friends are oblivious as to why Ava suddenly feels panicked at the very thought of Joel coming back. Ava enrols the help of Jules to help her with on-line dating as she doesn't want Joel to believe she is a lonely spinster. Jules is happy to help Ava achieve this. Joel arrives back into London, he is single, hot and an extremely successful businessman. It is arranged for all the friends to have a reunion dinner with Joel to welcome him back.
The story jumps to the past where Joel and Ava develop a close friendship going to the library regular to study but it becomes apparent they have strong feelings for one another. They embark on a secret relationship as Ava feels it may ruin the dynamics of the group of friends. The tension is palpable every time there is a gathering with Joel, Ava Jules, Adam, Matt and Hannah and of course Daniel and Leah who we learnt about from Faithful. As the story progresses, you are anxious to know why eight years ago Joel and Ava were in their own little love bubble and get to where they are now older and alone. It’s clear they were deeply in love eight years ago. So what happened or changed to make them where they are in present day? Do they still harbour feelings for each other after all this time? That is a question that can only be answered by reading this story.
This book contains hot sex, angst and you are so desperate to know what happens next. It is clear the author knows how to tell a good story that keeps you on the edge of your seat wanting to know more, and I'm hoping that we get to have more about Joel and Ava along with the other mentioned characters.This story reminded me of the hit American series Friends but with hot scenes and more angst. We all know how successful that show was.
Well done Louise for another fantastic book. I'm hopeful there is more to come.
December 9, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review and I am so thankful I did. I had not read anything by Ms. Bay before. But I so loved this book!!! There are many characters in here that you will fall in love with. But Joel and Ava stole my heart, and there were many times I wanted to shake her by the shoulders and talk some sense into her. There is a lot of angst that occurs in this book and I couldn't wait to see how this love story played out.
"You'll heal and you'll find another love. I promise." He was trying to comfort me but it was me that felt sorry for him. He'd never felt what I felt for Joel, or he wouldn't say that.
"I don't think so. Men compartmentalize these things in a way I don't think women can. Men can say, 'We've split up, life moves on, I'll find someone else,' and then never think about that person again. Women, I think, bruise more deeply, love longer."
He finished his mouthful of food. "You think Daisy will take me back?"
"I think that if you feel the thunderbolt, you will love her whether or not she takes you back."
I loved the jump between past and present, but was so engrossed by their story that sometimes, I'd finish a present section and groaned when I had to wait to find out what was going to happen because I needed to go back to the past. But it read quite smoothly and I liked this transitioning very much.
The friends in this group are both charming and aggrevating at times, but they are true friends and you can feel the love they have for each other.
And yes, towards the end of the book, I was an emotional mess! I would definitely recommend this book! I am looking forward to reading more books from Ms. Bay!
"You'll heal and you'll find another love. I promise." He was trying to comfort me but it was me that felt sorry for him. He'd never felt what I felt for Joel, or he wouldn't say that.
"I don't think so. Men compartmentalize these things in a way I don't think women can. Men can say, 'We've split up, life moves on, I'll find someone else,' and then never think about that person again. Women, I think, bruise more deeply, love longer."
He finished his mouthful of food. "You think Daisy will take me back?"
"I think that if you feel the thunderbolt, you will love her whether or not she takes you back."
I loved the jump between past and present, but was so engrossed by their story that sometimes, I'd finish a present section and groaned when I had to wait to find out what was going to happen because I needed to go back to the past. But it read quite smoothly and I liked this transitioning very much.
The friends in this group are both charming and aggrevating at times, but they are true friends and you can feel the love they have for each other.
And yes, towards the end of the book, I was an emotional mess! I would definitely recommend this book! I am looking forward to reading more books from Ms. Bay!
August 23, 2014
4.5 Cocktails
I've been on a reading binge lately with hot, sexy British heroes. And HOPEFUL was one that was an absolute delight and had me wishing for a bit more of Joel Wentworth. There were so many things that I loved about the story. The second chance romance, the angst of Ava and Joel seeing each other again and the friendship between the group of friends. The author creates such a fabulous story and characters that you can't help but fall totally into the story and the romance.
Ava and Joel has a unique relationship. I loved the way they were with each other in college and how Joel brought Ava out of her shell. I never liked the idea that their relationship was a secret, but I could see how shy Ava never believed that someone as popular as Joel could want her. But Joel was the epitome of the perfect boyfriend and it was hard not to feel sorry for Joel a little bit more than Ava when their relationship ended. So when they meet again ten years later, I was just as nervous as Ava. But I should have known that Joel was going to be that guy who was so cool and perfect that everything Ava thought she had put behind her with Joel would come rushing back.
I highly recommend HOPEFUL. Louise Bay creates such an engaging world that you can't help but find yourself mesmerized. The characters stick with you and have you wishing there was more to the story by the time you get to the last page.
I've been on a reading binge lately with hot, sexy British heroes. And HOPEFUL was one that was an absolute delight and had me wishing for a bit more of Joel Wentworth. There were so many things that I loved about the story. The second chance romance, the angst of Ava and Joel seeing each other again and the friendship between the group of friends. The author creates such a fabulous story and characters that you can't help but fall totally into the story and the romance.
Ava and Joel has a unique relationship. I loved the way they were with each other in college and how Joel brought Ava out of her shell. I never liked the idea that their relationship was a secret, but I could see how shy Ava never believed that someone as popular as Joel could want her. But Joel was the epitome of the perfect boyfriend and it was hard not to feel sorry for Joel a little bit more than Ava when their relationship ended. So when they meet again ten years later, I was just as nervous as Ava. But I should have known that Joel was going to be that guy who was so cool and perfect that everything Ava thought she had put behind her with Joel would come rushing back.
I highly recommend HOPEFUL. Louise Bay creates such an engaging world that you can't help but find yourself mesmerized. The characters stick with you and have you wishing there was more to the story by the time you get to the last page.
July 17, 2014
4.5 stars! Loved it!
Something different girls! I've really enjoyed this read.
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Something different girls! I've really enjoyed this read.
MY FULL REVIEW - MEET AVA & JOEL!
http://cariads-sizzling-pages.blogspo... - come visit me!
Sizzling Pages Romance Reviews
Sizzling Pages @ Facebook
Twitter:@Sizzlingpages
July 6, 2017
I was lured into reading this book cos the blurb sounded like it was right up my alley but the execution and delivery of it was just crap. Ava is pretty much still hung up on Joel even 8 years later and she tries to get over him even more so with his return back in her life, but really only half-assedly doing so. I experienced so much second-hand embarrassment and cringe from Ava, it's not even funny. Look, fine- I get that love blinds you and everything rational be darned, but she was quite a horrible character. A mutual friend set up a date with Joel, oblivious that Ava had a past with him and Ava goes to help friend get ready for the date with intention of choosing an outfit, which Ava would be certain Joel wouldn't like. JUST WTF AVA.
Ava and Joel's romance I couldn't really buy into either. IDK. You guys have been separated for 8 years and you act like nothing has changed and you guys are still the same individuals you were before so no problem picking up where you guys left it off? Nu-uh, I felt like they never got to know each other and reconnect with who they have become before jumping straight back at it. And I did not mean reconnect physically ugh
The main thing I hated most about this book was the bloody constant freaking flashbacks!! SERIOUSLY. If it's not important to the present storyline I DON'T CARE. The constant switching back and forth, past and present just killed this story for me. It was not necessary and it did not add anything to the story, constant flashbacks usually only work well when there is some mystery/plot twist in the story slowly being revealed or adding an endearing aspect (i.e childhood flashbacks - see Torn). I already got and somewhat related to how much Ava was stuck on Joel from present storyline there was no need to delve into the past and outline their whole relationship. FREAKING WASTE OF PAGES! Absolutely hated it.
April 20, 2019
This book was evidently inspired by Persuasion, by Jane Austen, and then modernised and rehashed in an exceedingly sloppy and superficial way.
I skimmed it all, but all the main points of similarity with persuasion were there: the surname of the hero, Wentworth, the heroine having to watch another girl pursue the hero, the heroine overhearing the hero commenting about how much she’d aged since he’d seen her last, the heroine refusing to go with the hero because of the opposition of her parents, the part near the end where the hero listens to the heroine talk with another guy and so on and so forth. But the one element which broke the book was how the writer entirely missed the point about the heroine, she basically tried to recreate a similar situation, by disregarding one important fact and that is the vast cultural gap between the Persuasion and her rehashed sloppy imitation. taking the social, economical, political and cultural background of the circa 18th century heroine into consideration, her decisions and actions take an entirely different colour than when imposéd on this heroine who lives in early 21st century. Those decisions and actions make the first heroine seem strong, prudent, consistent and loyal, but in her latter day counterpart, they just make her seem idiotic, neurotic, spineless, self serving and self centered and downright despicable. And by the way, in Persuasion Anne introduces Captain Wentworth to all her social circle as someone whom she was seeing, which was a daring move for a girl in that time, whereas the heroine in this book keeps her relationship with the hero a secret. Just to rest my case about how inferior this rewriting is! And this is just the structure of the remake that I’m pointing out. Because the writing, the conversations the characters all fell flat and there were parts where the droning would just not stop.
In short whereas you rooted For Anne in Persuasion, in this one, you just want to bash the heroine’s head on something so that the stupid book would end quicker. I’d previously read another book by this person and was exactly as disappointed and frustrated I’m feeling now. So I guess this is it with this writer for me.
I skimmed it all, but all the main points of similarity with persuasion were there: the surname of the hero, Wentworth, the heroine having to watch another girl pursue the hero, the heroine overhearing the hero commenting about how much she’d aged since he’d seen her last, the heroine refusing to go with the hero because of the opposition of her parents, the part near the end where the hero listens to the heroine talk with another guy and so on and so forth. But the one element which broke the book was how the writer entirely missed the point about the heroine, she basically tried to recreate a similar situation, by disregarding one important fact and that is the vast cultural gap between the Persuasion and her rehashed sloppy imitation. taking the social, economical, political and cultural background of the circa 18th century heroine into consideration, her decisions and actions take an entirely different colour than when imposéd on this heroine who lives in early 21st century. Those decisions and actions make the first heroine seem strong, prudent, consistent and loyal, but in her latter day counterpart, they just make her seem idiotic, neurotic, spineless, self serving and self centered and downright despicable. And by the way, in Persuasion Anne introduces Captain Wentworth to all her social circle as someone whom she was seeing, which was a daring move for a girl in that time, whereas the heroine in this book keeps her relationship with the hero a secret. Just to rest my case about how inferior this rewriting is! And this is just the structure of the remake that I’m pointing out. Because the writing, the conversations the characters all fell flat and there were parts where the droning would just not stop.
In short whereas you rooted For Anne in Persuasion, in this one, you just want to bash the heroine’s head on something so that the stupid book would end quicker. I’d previously read another book by this person and was exactly as disappointed and frustrated I’m feeling now. So I guess this is it with this writer for me.
October 18, 2014
*ARC provided for honest review* For your next fix: http://www.pageturningbookjunkie.blog...
4.5 out of 5 Emotional, Heart Palpitating, Hopeful Stars!
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I got to say BRAVO to the second installment to this series and a tip of my imaginary top hat to you, Louise Bay! I have been trying to pin point exactly why this book really did it for me, but it's not really just one thing, it's everything wrapped together in one awesome and delicious book. I really connected with the characters and the way the story was told effectively had me tied to my Kindle. Joel turned me into a swoony wanton mess and the connection between him and Ava was endearing and heart warming.
"I managed to piece together a reality that worked for me. It wasn't that I wasn't in love--I was. It was that my love just wasn't in my life. Love hadn't been enough." -Ava
Ava and Joel had a passionate and tumultuous secret relationship while they were both in college. They both loved each other desperately, but they made many wrong choices that left them at a terribly conflicting crossroad once they graduated. Ava chose to stay in London to pursue her dreams instead of going to New York with Joel to chase after his. After many years of failed attempts to forget Joel Wentworth, Ava is thrown off kilter, when she discovers that he is returning to London. She is determined to at least appear put together, so she enlists the help of her friend to set her up with an online dating site. The hits and misses of online dating is always a sure way to have me laughing my arse off! So she sets off on a mission to speed date her way through the internet, all in order to not be single when Joel arrives. The anticipation of their first meeting was giving me ants in my pants for sure (the good kind that is). Ava wasn't sure how she would be received once he returned. They shared the same group of friends so there was no hiding from him.
"He was indifferent, and it was unexpected and brought a different kind of pain. I was prepared for his anger to still be there. Even if I tried to tell myself I wasn't, I was hoping to see some remnants of love. But indifference? I just wasn't prepared for it." -Ava
While they both struggle to find their footing in the present, we get flashes back to the past from when their whole relationship started. These were my favorite parts for sure. I loved how they started out as study buddies, and the sexual tension slowly simmered in. They kept their relationship a secret from their friends mostly because Ava wanted it that way. The reasons she does so was both understandable and relatable. Joel was the ultimate hunky playboy and in her eyes she was nothing special and he was miles out of her league. She not only struggled with feeling deserving of his attention, but she also didn't want to face the judgement from others. Well, we all know that this recipe always leads to unbearable acts of jealousy because neither one of them could publicly lay claim to each other.
"You know this is it for me. You're it for me," he said in my ear as I unbuckled his belt.
I nodded. I did know. I knew this, what we were about to do, had the power to end it for me, and he felt it, too. Maybe that's why he'd held me back for so long. Maybe it was as much about him protecting himself as him protecting me.
In the present, they battle between the feelings they shared in the past (which were not all warm and fuzzy) and the emotions they provoke in each other in the now. How long can they possibly last before the emotionally charged bomb goes off and they cave? Their friends still have no idea of their past relationship, so they both are forced to make an attempt at indifference to mask the true inner turmoil. Once everything ignites, will Ava finally be able to put away the fear of everyone else's opinions and scream out her love for Joel? Or will Joel be forced into being a dirty little secret again? Can they actually have a chance at a real relationship this time around, or will the past rejection, anger, and secrets continue to hold them hostage?
"Joel, I love you. I have always loved you and I will always love you. You can have any piece of me you want. You can have me tonight or forever. I'm yours." -Ava
My heart was irrevocably stolen....more like willingly thrown at Joel's devilishly handsome feet. I thoroughly enjoyed this book not solely because of Joel, but also the storyline and the emotions that were successfully forced out of me. I connected much more with this one than the first book, I got to say. I read romance in all varieties and appreciate them all the same, so I know you don't always need the same recipe to produce a solid emotionally gripping story. If done right, all you need are amazing characters...check...enthralling storyline to keep you wanting more...check...and sizzling hot chemistry...double check! This book hooked me right from beginning to end and I sunk right into the turbulent depths of their journey. I would definitely recommend this book to my fellow readers out there.
Find me at: http://www.facebook.com/pageturningbo...
Blog: http://www.pageturningbookjunkie.blog...
4.5 out of 5 Emotional, Heart Palpitating, Hopeful Stars!
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I got to say BRAVO to the second installment to this series and a tip of my imaginary top hat to you, Louise Bay! I have been trying to pin point exactly why this book really did it for me, but it's not really just one thing, it's everything wrapped together in one awesome and delicious book. I really connected with the characters and the way the story was told effectively had me tied to my Kindle. Joel turned me into a swoony wanton mess and the connection between him and Ava was endearing and heart warming.
"I managed to piece together a reality that worked for me. It wasn't that I wasn't in love--I was. It was that my love just wasn't in my life. Love hadn't been enough." -Ava
Ava and Joel had a passionate and tumultuous secret relationship while they were both in college. They both loved each other desperately, but they made many wrong choices that left them at a terribly conflicting crossroad once they graduated. Ava chose to stay in London to pursue her dreams instead of going to New York with Joel to chase after his. After many years of failed attempts to forget Joel Wentworth, Ava is thrown off kilter, when she discovers that he is returning to London. She is determined to at least appear put together, so she enlists the help of her friend to set her up with an online dating site. The hits and misses of online dating is always a sure way to have me laughing my arse off! So she sets off on a mission to speed date her way through the internet, all in order to not be single when Joel arrives. The anticipation of their first meeting was giving me ants in my pants for sure (the good kind that is). Ava wasn't sure how she would be received once he returned. They shared the same group of friends so there was no hiding from him.
"He was indifferent, and it was unexpected and brought a different kind of pain. I was prepared for his anger to still be there. Even if I tried to tell myself I wasn't, I was hoping to see some remnants of love. But indifference? I just wasn't prepared for it." -Ava
While they both struggle to find their footing in the present, we get flashes back to the past from when their whole relationship started. These were my favorite parts for sure. I loved how they started out as study buddies, and the sexual tension slowly simmered in. They kept their relationship a secret from their friends mostly because Ava wanted it that way. The reasons she does so was both understandable and relatable. Joel was the ultimate hunky playboy and in her eyes she was nothing special and he was miles out of her league. She not only struggled with feeling deserving of his attention, but she also didn't want to face the judgement from others. Well, we all know that this recipe always leads to unbearable acts of jealousy because neither one of them could publicly lay claim to each other.
"You know this is it for me. You're it for me," he said in my ear as I unbuckled his belt.
I nodded. I did know. I knew this, what we were about to do, had the power to end it for me, and he felt it, too. Maybe that's why he'd held me back for so long. Maybe it was as much about him protecting himself as him protecting me.
In the present, they battle between the feelings they shared in the past (which were not all warm and fuzzy) and the emotions they provoke in each other in the now. How long can they possibly last before the emotionally charged bomb goes off and they cave? Their friends still have no idea of their past relationship, so they both are forced to make an attempt at indifference to mask the true inner turmoil. Once everything ignites, will Ava finally be able to put away the fear of everyone else's opinions and scream out her love for Joel? Or will Joel be forced into being a dirty little secret again? Can they actually have a chance at a real relationship this time around, or will the past rejection, anger, and secrets continue to hold them hostage?
"Joel, I love you. I have always loved you and I will always love you. You can have any piece of me you want. You can have me tonight or forever. I'm yours." -Ava
My heart was irrevocably stolen....more like willingly thrown at Joel's devilishly handsome feet. I thoroughly enjoyed this book not solely because of Joel, but also the storyline and the emotions that were successfully forced out of me. I connected much more with this one than the first book, I got to say. I read romance in all varieties and appreciate them all the same, so I know you don't always need the same recipe to produce a solid emotionally gripping story. If done right, all you need are amazing characters...check...enthralling storyline to keep you wanting more...check...and sizzling hot chemistry...double check! This book hooked me right from beginning to end and I sunk right into the turbulent depths of their journey. I would definitely recommend this book to my fellow readers out there.
Find me at: http://www.facebook.com/pageturningbo...
Blog: http://www.pageturningbookjunkie.blog...
July 15, 2014
Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Ava is a part of a big group of friends that have all been together since their college days. They are now all approaching thirty and the dynamics of the group are starting to change. They’re either pairing off with other members of the group or finding others outside of the group, just making their social group bigger. It is at a party for one of the friend’s birthday that Ava’s world tilts on its axis. She finds out that Joel, her college love, is returning to London, having left for New York eight years previous.
When Joel returns to London and meets up with his old college friends, he hardly recognizes Ava. In college she was slightly mousy, preferring sweats and pony tails; now, she is an urban professional, complete with the hair, make up and wardrobe. The first few times they are put into social situations with each other, things are very awkward, and they attempt to stay away from each other.
In college, he was attracted to Ava for her intelligence and spirit, not to mention that he has found her beautiful from the start. Ava, not wanting to be gossip for their group of friends, asks Joel to keep their relationship on the down low, never going public, their friends never knowing that the two of them are together.
When it comes time for graduation and Joel is given the opportunity to go to New York for a year for work, he asks Ava to go with him, putting her schooling off for a year. Unfortunately she easily bows to the pressure from her parents to continue on with her degree to become a lawyer. Joel and Ava never saw one another again, until eight years later, when he finally returned.
Upon his return and a few awkward social events, Joel shows up at Ava’s door at three o’clock in the morning, it is time for them both to confront the mistakes of the past and see if they can move on and have a future together. When they are both able to finally air their feelings, sparks fly, and they pick up where they left off.
Unfortunately though, once again Ava wants to keep their relationship on the down low, which is a non-starter for Joel. He wants everyone to know that they are together and some day, he wants to marry her. When finally given an ultimatum will Ava finally come around and admit to her other friends that they are together? Or will Joel grow tired of her refusal to take their relationship public?
I absolutely loved the mixture of then and now scenes. It was a great mix that really helped to make the timeline flow and understand just how deeply their passion for each other ran, and how connected they were. The passion from the past easily finds itself in the present and the results are molten. The chemistry between the two is palpable and the evolution of their relationship, from first love in college, to a frenzied reunion all make for a steamy, steamy read.
Hopeful is hands down a five star book. The characters were well developed and relatable and the book is well written. I love second chance romances and this was a perfect example of one. I loved the group dynamic and the fact that their relationships were so easy and comfortable. I really felt like I got to know them. Joel in particular has definitely made it onto my BBF wall of fame and I know I’m definitely looking forward to many more great things from Ms. Bay!
Ava is a part of a big group of friends that have all been together since their college days. They are now all approaching thirty and the dynamics of the group are starting to change. They’re either pairing off with other members of the group or finding others outside of the group, just making their social group bigger. It is at a party for one of the friend’s birthday that Ava’s world tilts on its axis. She finds out that Joel, her college love, is returning to London, having left for New York eight years previous.
When Joel returns to London and meets up with his old college friends, he hardly recognizes Ava. In college she was slightly mousy, preferring sweats and pony tails; now, she is an urban professional, complete with the hair, make up and wardrobe. The first few times they are put into social situations with each other, things are very awkward, and they attempt to stay away from each other.
In college, he was attracted to Ava for her intelligence and spirit, not to mention that he has found her beautiful from the start. Ava, not wanting to be gossip for their group of friends, asks Joel to keep their relationship on the down low, never going public, their friends never knowing that the two of them are together.
When it comes time for graduation and Joel is given the opportunity to go to New York for a year for work, he asks Ava to go with him, putting her schooling off for a year. Unfortunately she easily bows to the pressure from her parents to continue on with her degree to become a lawyer. Joel and Ava never saw one another again, until eight years later, when he finally returned.
Upon his return and a few awkward social events, Joel shows up at Ava’s door at three o’clock in the morning, it is time for them both to confront the mistakes of the past and see if they can move on and have a future together. When they are both able to finally air their feelings, sparks fly, and they pick up where they left off.
Unfortunately though, once again Ava wants to keep their relationship on the down low, which is a non-starter for Joel. He wants everyone to know that they are together and some day, he wants to marry her. When finally given an ultimatum will Ava finally come around and admit to her other friends that they are together? Or will Joel grow tired of her refusal to take their relationship public?
I absolutely loved the mixture of then and now scenes. It was a great mix that really helped to make the timeline flow and understand just how deeply their passion for each other ran, and how connected they were. The passion from the past easily finds itself in the present and the results are molten. The chemistry between the two is palpable and the evolution of their relationship, from first love in college, to a frenzied reunion all make for a steamy, steamy read.
Hopeful is hands down a five star book. The characters were well developed and relatable and the book is well written. I love second chance romances and this was a perfect example of one. I loved the group dynamic and the fact that their relationships were so easy and comfortable. I really felt like I got to know them. Joel in particular has definitely made it onto my BBF wall of fame and I know I’m definitely looking forward to many more great things from Ms. Bay!
August 19, 2014
First off, I want to thank author Louise Bay for an advanced copy of her latest book in exchange for an honest review. As this is will be my second review of her writing, I am honored to review yet another amazing book by her and only wish her the best and cannot wait to read more.
From the beginning you are introduced to the main characters Joel and Ava. You learn how their friendship grew into something much, much more. The chemistry and intensity going on between them through the whole book felt so strong and you could really feel it and it was definitely H-O-T!!! I loved the playful banter between all the characters as they instantly capture your heart, making you become almost like the "third wheel" in their relationship. You just HAVE to be there, because you WANT to be there!This is a beautiful love story that will leave you laughing one minute and in tears of hope the next.The emotional scenes that the author portrays are raw, genuine and palpable and were very breath taking.
Ava is beautiful, successful, and independent. And while she maybe strong, she has issues with disappointing others.She thinks that her friends and parents will judge her for her choices in her love life.
Joel is the kind of man that exists only in your wet fantasies; he is successful, dominant, considerate, passionate and mouth watering sexy. Confidence just stands him away from all the others. He is the kind of man that looks, talks and acts like a grizzly bear with all the others, but really is a big old teddy bear.
Infinity truly symbolizes the intense love and connection that Ava and Joel share. They are like Yin and Yang.
Hopeful is about love, acceptance, friendship, forgiveness, insecurities, heartbreak and taking chances. It’s a story that attest that we all get a second chance at loving and living, if we truly believe that we are worthy of receiving love. It has a modern take on the pressures between men and women and whether you should live your life for yourself or for the person you love.
This is a companion book to Faithful(Leah and Daniel's story) and a fantastic summer read.
From the beginning you are introduced to the main characters Joel and Ava. You learn how their friendship grew into something much, much more. The chemistry and intensity going on between them through the whole book felt so strong and you could really feel it and it was definitely H-O-T!!! I loved the playful banter between all the characters as they instantly capture your heart, making you become almost like the "third wheel" in their relationship. You just HAVE to be there, because you WANT to be there!This is a beautiful love story that will leave you laughing one minute and in tears of hope the next.The emotional scenes that the author portrays are raw, genuine and palpable and were very breath taking.
Ava is beautiful, successful, and independent. And while she maybe strong, she has issues with disappointing others.She thinks that her friends and parents will judge her for her choices in her love life.
Joel is the kind of man that exists only in your wet fantasies; he is successful, dominant, considerate, passionate and mouth watering sexy. Confidence just stands him away from all the others. He is the kind of man that looks, talks and acts like a grizzly bear with all the others, but really is a big old teddy bear.
Infinity truly symbolizes the intense love and connection that Ava and Joel share. They are like Yin and Yang.
Hopeful is about love, acceptance, friendship, forgiveness, insecurities, heartbreak and taking chances. It’s a story that attest that we all get a second chance at loving and living, if we truly believe that we are worthy of receiving love. It has a modern take on the pressures between men and women and whether you should live your life for yourself or for the person you love.
This is a companion book to Faithful(Leah and Daniel's story) and a fantastic summer read.
August 20, 2020
Ava Elliot has a pretty good life. A law student at university, she's smart and studious, and has a tightly-knit group of friends that are like family. Joel Wentworth is the whole package. Not only intelligent, he is handsome, nice, and funny. Girls love him and guys want to be like him. Ava would never have thought that they had anything in common, let alone that they could fall in love with each other.
'Hopeful' is one of those 'happy accident' books for me, one that I knew absolutely nothing about, but which I enjoyed completely. Louise Bay has written a very well-crafted story, full of characters that I would absolutely love to spend time with. I loved watching Ava and Joel get to know each other. Louise really took the time to show their relationship developing, so that it seemed much more realistic when thy realized their feelings for each other had grown from friendship to love. And the passion was definitely there, too. Their growing attraction to each other was palpable, so that by the time that they acted on it, it was inevitable, and not only sweet, but very steamy, as well.
'Hopeful' was not all sunshine and happy times. Some of the best stories are those that involve a hefty dose of angst, and that is definitely present here. It allowed, I think, for further character development, especially Ava's, which was necessary for the book to end the way that it did. I am looking forward to reading more from Louise, and really hope that Jules and Adam get their own books. A definite 4.5 star read.
July 17, 2014
I'm nothing special, never have been, never will be. But for a while Joel made me feel special. Then he left me and went to New York. That was 8 years ago, we haven't spoken a word in those 8 years. I've never gotten over Joel, now he's coming back to London...to stay.
Joel, Ava, Adam, Jules, Matt, Daniel, Leah and Hannah drifted through University together, and stayed very close in the years after, Joel being the only to move away. Joel and Adam were the notorious playboys, hooking up with a new girl every time one glanced their way.
Ava was your average college student, but below average on the attention she drew from the opposite sex. Somehow Ava and Joel ended up in a secret relationship, but would it last if Ava couldn't fess up to her friends. What would happen to them when Joel leaves for New York?
The author of Hopeful tells a very real emotional, yet hopeful story. This story is full of longing, and I think everyone is pulling for the underdog in this book. She sure left us with a bit of a wanting more, but the best Writers always do.
I loved this story, but at times felt anger with Joel. Now that I am finished, he's working his way back into my heart. I was constantly pulling for Ava, who can't resist the underdog? I can't wait for this author to finish her story, and see what else she has up her sleeve for the rest of their friends.
A great Read, I highly recommend this book.
Joel, Ava, Adam, Jules, Matt, Daniel, Leah and Hannah drifted through University together, and stayed very close in the years after, Joel being the only to move away. Joel and Adam were the notorious playboys, hooking up with a new girl every time one glanced their way.
Ava was your average college student, but below average on the attention she drew from the opposite sex. Somehow Ava and Joel ended up in a secret relationship, but would it last if Ava couldn't fess up to her friends. What would happen to them when Joel leaves for New York?
The author of Hopeful tells a very real emotional, yet hopeful story. This story is full of longing, and I think everyone is pulling for the underdog in this book. She sure left us with a bit of a wanting more, but the best Writers always do.
I loved this story, but at times felt anger with Joel. Now that I am finished, he's working his way back into my heart. I was constantly pulling for Ava, who can't resist the underdog? I can't wait for this author to finish her story, and see what else she has up her sleeve for the rest of their friends.
A great Read, I highly recommend this book.
July 25, 2014
Ava has had the same group of five friends for over 10 years. Having lived together at the university, they have all remained close as the years passed. There was one friend who went to New York to start a career, and everyone is gathering to welcome him back to London. The lost love of Ava’s life, Joel is returning.
Ava has worked long, hard hours to get to the professional level she is at. A lawyer who works the hours as she has is bound to do well. What her friends didn’t know, is that the reason she worked herself to death, is that her heart had never recovered from the heartbreak of losing Joel. He had visited London from time to time, but Ava always used work as an excuse to stay away when everyone got together. She knew she was the reason they were not together anymore, but she just couldn’t stomach the idea that he had moved on and was with someone new.
Not wanting to look pathetic and lonely, Ava goes on several blind dates hoping to make a connection, anything to get Joel off her mind. But now Joel is back and Ava realizes nothing has changed in how she feels about him. She still loves him and all the time hasn’t diminished the love she still has for this man. But should she try to fix what she broke 8 years ago and how do you go about fixing a broken heart?
This was a great read. The friends seemed like real people, people you the reader would go have drinks with. Great writing and Joel was just yummy. Loved the book, 4.5 stars!
Ava has worked long, hard hours to get to the professional level she is at. A lawyer who works the hours as she has is bound to do well. What her friends didn’t know, is that the reason she worked herself to death, is that her heart had never recovered from the heartbreak of losing Joel. He had visited London from time to time, but Ava always used work as an excuse to stay away when everyone got together. She knew she was the reason they were not together anymore, but she just couldn’t stomach the idea that he had moved on and was with someone new.
Not wanting to look pathetic and lonely, Ava goes on several blind dates hoping to make a connection, anything to get Joel off her mind. But now Joel is back and Ava realizes nothing has changed in how she feels about him. She still loves him and all the time hasn’t diminished the love she still has for this man. But should she try to fix what she broke 8 years ago and how do you go about fixing a broken heart?
This was a great read. The friends seemed like real people, people you the reader would go have drinks with. Great writing and Joel was just yummy. Loved the book, 4.5 stars!
August 24, 2014
When I started Hopeful and realized that it was going to go back and forth from past to present every other chapter, I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel. Then I realized what was wrong was that I was too impatient, or appreciation for delayed gratification. :) I wanted to know what had happened in the past so badly that I was getting frustrated having to wait.
I was completely absorbed in the book, going from what happened before to what was happening now to what happened before, but I just wanted to know NOW.
I think that’s the sign of a well written book, if you ask me. When you are so wrapped up in these characters you want to know what went wrong so you watch them fix it… if a fix is possible.
I completely get why Joel was hurt in the past. I was just as frustrated with young Ava for most of the book as Joel was.
Adult Ava however was someone I could like. After she finally decided what she wanted. I don’t want to go farther than that with that line of thought because I don’t want to spoil anything, other than to say her insecurities, while we all have them both as kids and as adults, drove me a little crazy.
To me, college Joel would have been a guy I proudly would have embraced and wanted to shout about to the world. Adult Joe was even better.
Excellent book! I am really glad I got a chance to read this.
Thank you so much for my copy of Hopeful!
I was completely absorbed in the book, going from what happened before to what was happening now to what happened before, but I just wanted to know NOW.
I think that’s the sign of a well written book, if you ask me. When you are so wrapped up in these characters you want to know what went wrong so you watch them fix it… if a fix is possible.
I completely get why Joel was hurt in the past. I was just as frustrated with young Ava for most of the book as Joel was.
Adult Ava however was someone I could like. After she finally decided what she wanted. I don’t want to go farther than that with that line of thought because I don’t want to spoil anything, other than to say her insecurities, while we all have them both as kids and as adults, drove me a little crazy.
To me, college Joel would have been a guy I proudly would have embraced and wanted to shout about to the world. Adult Joe was even better.
Excellent book! I am really glad I got a chance to read this.
Thank you so much for my copy of Hopeful!
May 1, 2015
This is the fourth book I've read by Louise Bay in two days (crazy, I know) and I loved it. Apparently, when I find an author I like, I just can't get enough! Hopeful is a story about just that - being hopeful in life; in love; in everything. In this book, we follow the story of Joel and Ava, but this is unlike any other book that I've read because we flip back and forth constantly from "past" to "present." This is all in a span of about eight years. Eight long years that our H and h haven't seen each other and haven't spoken with one another. Since it is completely told in the h's voice, we, as readers, really get to experience all of her emotions, which tightens a bond that you do not usually find in fiction novels. I appreciated this for what it was and felt grateful that we were able to understand one of the characters so fully. With that being said and the fact that this is still a five star read for me, I would have liked to get more "present" interactions sooner as those were the characters that were truly interesting to me. Young love is one thing, but add years of life experience to that and it becomes something different...something more. The romance, the longing, the angst, the love and the lust in this book were amazing and what kept me glued to the 'pages' of my Kindle all day today. A fantastic book for those who love romance, second chances at love and just overall great reads!
August 18, 2014
Louise Bay is one of those who have challenged the tradition by self-publishing her novel, HOPEFUL. As she put the proverbial pen to paper, she went to the unusual step of chronicling her writing and publishing in a blog on her website. As a writer myself, I found it fascinating to see the steps and pitfalls she went through to get her book to where it is today.
Set in London, HOPEFUL is about Ava and Joel, two friends from university who become study partners and lovers. There’s a lot of emotion in the book, which is told in first-person from Ava’s point of view. Louise Bay has applied the technique of flashbacks to document two different stories of Ava and Joel’s relationship, but has taken the technique in a unique direction by telling both stories simultaneously. Both stories interrelate and a give the reader a clear picture of what makes this couple tick, but the real allure is the smoothness of the writing. The storyline moves backwards and forwards seamlessly and the reader will have no issues with the change in the timeline. A truly difficult technique that Louise Bay has executed well.
With the exceptional writing, a plausible plot and entertaining supporting characters, HOPEFUL is enjoyable from start to finish. The uncertainties and passion of a first love are the story here and will keep you reading.
Definitely give HOPEFUL a look!
Set in London, HOPEFUL is about Ava and Joel, two friends from university who become study partners and lovers. There’s a lot of emotion in the book, which is told in first-person from Ava’s point of view. Louise Bay has applied the technique of flashbacks to document two different stories of Ava and Joel’s relationship, but has taken the technique in a unique direction by telling both stories simultaneously. Both stories interrelate and a give the reader a clear picture of what makes this couple tick, but the real allure is the smoothness of the writing. The storyline moves backwards and forwards seamlessly and the reader will have no issues with the change in the timeline. A truly difficult technique that Louise Bay has executed well.
With the exceptional writing, a plausible plot and entertaining supporting characters, HOPEFUL is enjoyable from start to finish. The uncertainties and passion of a first love are the story here and will keep you reading.
Definitely give HOPEFUL a look!
July 15, 2014
Deserves more than a 5 stars!
I was given an advance copy of Hopeful in return of an honest review.
Wow!!!! Louise you have taken my breath away with this story. Absolutely amazing!
Ava and Joal are the main characters of the story, both at university trying to do well. Ava is the more quiet and shy, Joal is the heartthrob "player".
Now everyone would love a piece of Joal he's hot, smart and funny. Ava and Joal become friends whilst studying everyday together in the library.
After a while of fighting attraction to one and another they fall into a "relationship" of sorts. Just them too know and they don't tell their circle of friends.
However every story has a price to pay and it's a heavy price for Ava to make. She has a decision to make, one that can change everything.
You are going to have to read Hopeful to find out. I am not telling you!
All I will say this book is hot! Descriptive ;-) and will be getting you reaching for your man!
The story is written with such emotion from humour, love and lost. Their are 2 characters I will say look out for and that's Adam and Jules. They will have you laughing out loud I promise you!
Congratulations on a beautiful book and happy release day xxxx
I was given an advance copy of Hopeful in return of an honest review.
Wow!!!! Louise you have taken my breath away with this story. Absolutely amazing!
Ava and Joal are the main characters of the story, both at university trying to do well. Ava is the more quiet and shy, Joal is the heartthrob "player".
Now everyone would love a piece of Joal he's hot, smart and funny. Ava and Joal become friends whilst studying everyday together in the library.
After a while of fighting attraction to one and another they fall into a "relationship" of sorts. Just them too know and they don't tell their circle of friends.
However every story has a price to pay and it's a heavy price for Ava to make. She has a decision to make, one that can change everything.
You are going to have to read Hopeful to find out. I am not telling you!
All I will say this book is hot! Descriptive ;-) and will be getting you reaching for your man!
The story is written with such emotion from humour, love and lost. Their are 2 characters I will say look out for and that's Adam and Jules. They will have you laughing out loud I promise you!
Congratulations on a beautiful book and happy release day xxxx
July 14, 2014
From the beginning you are introduced to the main characters and find out about how there friendship has grown. You also learn of Joel and Ava's friendship.
The author has done a great job writing this story in the present and past with such a. Great flow.
I really enjoyed seeing Ava grow more confident and choosing something for her and not worrying about what everyone else thinks and trying to approve.
But will lt be enough for Joel to give her another shot?
I finished this book in only a couple hours because I couldn't put it down. This was my first book written by Louise Bay and I will definitely be reading more.
The chemistry and intensity going on in this book felt so strong and you could really feel it and it was definitely Hot!!!
The author has done a great job writing this story in the present and past with such a. Great flow.
I really enjoyed seeing Ava grow more confident and choosing something for her and not worrying about what everyone else thinks and trying to approve.
But will lt be enough for Joel to give her another shot?
I finished this book in only a couple hours because I couldn't put it down. This was my first book written by Louise Bay and I will definitely be reading more.
The chemistry and intensity going on in this book felt so strong and you could really feel it and it was definitely Hot!!!
September 17, 2014
I love Joel in this book and my heart breaks for him. Ava is a great girl but I find her weak sometimes. It is that weakness that drove her and Joel apart for eight years. Even though this is supposed to be a YA, it is superbly written. Unlike some books in this genre, there was no cheating and no significant other to put an obstacle in the path of Joel and Ava`s reunion.
The author used the present-past narrative superbly. It was not a throw off at all. I will sure read more books by this author. I wish there will be a novella about Joel and Ava later though. I want to read how they are faring 5,10 years down the road.
The author used the present-past narrative superbly. It was not a throw off at all. I will sure read more books by this author. I wish there will be a novella about Joel and Ava later though. I want to read how they are faring 5,10 years down the road.
February 19, 2015
I really enjoyed reading this book! I am not a huge fan of the back and forth from past to present but the author did a great job with it and made it more tolerable! Great book!
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